Abstract

There is an emerging literature on health benefits of qigong in fibromyalgia in which participants practice qigong for standardized amounts of time (up to 6 months) and some reports of practice for 1-3 years. However, there is little information on longer-term practice over decades. This is a report of the experiences of three individuals with chronic pain and multiple other health problems who undertook instruction in qigong (Chaoyi Fanhuan Qigong, CFQ) and went on to practice over extended periods of time (hours/day, 8-15 years). All three report resolution of their chronic pain and multiple other health problems, as well as improvements in vision, during the course of their longterm practice. In each case, some benefits were manifest within the first months of practice, and initial benefits promoted further and more diligent practice to explore health possibilities. Health benefits occurred progressively over time. Improvements in eyesight were gradual. These experiences indicate that long-term qigong practice can transform health trajectories and individual lives in those with chronic pain. Further exploration, at many levels, into the health benefits of qigong needs to occur.

Keywords: Qigong; Chronic pain; Pain resolution; Health benefits; Vision